Chris Christie’s Presidential Campaign: Former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie has officially dropped out of the 2024 Republican presidential race, making headlines as the most outspoken critic of former President Donald Trump within the GOP primary. The announcement, coupled with a controversial hot mic moment, has added a new layer of intrigue to the unfolding presidential campaign.
Chris Christie’s Presidential Campaign:
Before making the formal announcement, Christie was caught off camera on a live microphone, expressing candid opinions about his fellow GOP rivals. In particular, he was heard saying, “She’s gonna get smoked, and you and I both know it. She’s not up to this,” presumably referencing former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley.
The hot mic incident also revealed that Florida Governor Ron DeSantis had contacted Christie. Although the audio cut out during Christie’s statement, it was later confirmed that DeSantis had called Christie, expressing his appreciation for Christie’s role in the race. However, sources dispute Christie’s characterization of the call as “categorically false.”
Presidential Candidates 2024:
Christie’s departure was not only marked by unofficial remarks but also by a public assessment of his fellow contenders. He criticized those unwilling to declare Trump unfit for the presidency, stating, “Anyone who is unwilling to say (Trump) is unfit to be president of the United States is unfit themselves to be president of the United States.”
Christie’s decision to exit came after disappointing poll numbers, especially in New Hampshire, where he hoped for stronger support against Trump. Despite his sharp opposition to Trump, Christie failed to gain the traction he needed.
“It is clear to me tonight that there isn’t a path for me to win the nomination, which is why I’m suspending my campaign tonight for President of the United States,” he declared at a Windham town hall, just 13 days before the first-in-the-nation primary.
Impact on Nikki Haley’s Campaign:
With Christie out of the race, Nikki Haley is expected to be the biggest beneficiary. Recent polls indicate that Haley has closed the gap with Trump in the Granite State. A CNN Poll conducted by the University of New Hampshire revealed that 65% of Christie supporters listed Haley as their second choice.
However, Christie’s exit does not guarantee an immediate endorsement for Haley. The former New Jersey governor, who had criticized Haley throughout his campaign, has no immediate plans to endorse another candidate, according to a Republican source.
Chris Christie And Nikki Haley Controversy:
Christie’s campaign was characterized by his unwavering opposition to Donald Trump. He launched his bid in 2023 with a scathing indictment of Trump, calling him a “lonely, self-consumed mirror hog” and a threat to American democracy. Throughout his campaign, Christie repeatedly emphasized the need to prevent Trump’s return to the presidency.
His critique extended beyond the campaign trail, with Christie openly condemning Trump’s behavior on various occasions. He described Trump as “disgusting” and accused him of inciting the January 6, 2021, insurrection at the US Capitol.
The Road Ahead: Christie’s Impact on the 2024 Race
Despite ending his presidential campaign, Chris Christie’s name will remain on the ballot in New Hampshire. The primary is scheduled for January 23, offering voters an opportunity to express their support for the former governor even after his withdrawal.
As the 2024 presidential race continues to unfold, Christie’s exit has undoubtedly left its mark, reshaping the dynamics of the Republican primary and potentially influencing the trajectory of Nikki Haley’s campaign. The fallout from Christie’s controversial hot mic moment adds an unexpected twist to an already unpredictable political landscape.